John, from Southampton, began volunteering with Acorn Activity Centre as an angling coach after deciding to reduce his working hours and gradually transition towards retirement. Looking for a meaningful way to give back, he wanted to support a local forest school and share his passion for fishing and the outdoors with children.
Over the past year, John has worked with Year 5 pupils and Home Educated children, teaching them the basics of fishing in a calm, natural environment. His sessions include showing children how to rig up a fishing pole, choose and use bait, handle fish safely and respectfully, and observe the wildlife and nature around the lake.
For John, the most rewarding part of volunteering has been seeing children develop confidence and master new skills. Watching them learn, succeed and enjoy the outdoors has brought him a huge sense of satisfaction and enjoyment.
Volunteering has also had a positive impact on John personally. He says it has made him more confident, patient and rounded as a person. He has formed new friendships through the role and now looks forward to every session at the lake. Inspired by his experience, John is even working towards becoming a full-time Forest School Leader.
The impact of John’s volunteering has extended beyond the fishing sessions themselves. By leading the angling activities, he has freed up the existing forest school leader to offer more craft activities and experiences, giving children a wider range of choices during their visits.
John has also seen the calming and therapeutic effect that fishing and time spent in nature can have on children, particularly those with social or learning difficulties. Spending a few quiet hours by the lake helps many children relax, focus and interact more positively with others.
When asked what advice he would give to others thinking about volunteering, John’s message is simple:
“Do it — you won’t regret it. It’s a fantastic thing and feeling.”